Eric S. McDonald

Eric S. McDonald

1961 -

2012

Eric slipped his earthly bonds on Tuesday, October 2, free at last from ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). He reluctantly left the loves of his life: wife Shelli, daughter Katie, son Robby.

He also left his brother Steve, and his nephew Nic. He had formed a deep friendship with Fernando Lara, who helped him personally and in the kitchen and garden with much laughter and mutual support. Eric was predeceased by his mother Chrystie Willcox, his father Robert McDonald, and his sister Pam Littlejohn.

He left as well a swarm of in-laws and outlaws and many friends of deep affection and regard who valued him as forthright, honest and a staunch defender.

Eric attended Gavilan College in Gilroy, CA, acting on stage with the North Valley Players, leading to his love of movies. He was a man of many enthusiasms: sports, camping, gardening, cooking, sharing his infectious good humor with all. His curiosity and intellect often led to lively and opinionated debates. And, he was fond of a good cigar.

After proudly serving in the Marines, and after college, Eric became a journyman steamfitter

(Union 393), working for Therma in San Jose, CA, for 17 years on major Silicon Valley projects.

In 2006, the family moved to Reno, where he worked for Savage and Sons, notably on the Spa at the Atlantis Resort, again earning the regard and friendship of his associates.

ALS is a cruel disease, robbing the body of ease and mobility yet leaving the mind alert. Origins are unknown, there is as yet no cure. The family thanks Drs. Baht and Peacock and Liz Mosco at the Reno VA hospital and the ALS Asssociation in Reno, especially Megan Testa.

We will celebrate Eric's life on October 21, at 2:00 at the Mountain View Mortuary, 425 Stoker Avenue, Reno, NV Instead of flowers, please consider donating to ALSA, NV, at alsofnevada.org/donate/gifts.